How Brushing Teeth Can Help with Stopping Heart Disease

Bacterial infection is among the several causes of heart disease that scientists have found. Gum disease is a bacterial infection centered in the mouth. Researchers have learned more about this connection and offer potentially valuable information to patients who want to protect their heart health.

Gum Disease Bacteria and Arteries

Even normal oral bacteria can cause problems elsewhere in the body if they enter the blood stream through diseased gums. One type of oral bacteria, Streptococcus gordonii, has been found to mimic a blood-clotting substance naturally present in the human body. After the bacteria enter the blood stream, it can then promote the formation of blood clots, which can begin to clog arteries. Over time, this process can lead to blood being cut off from the brain or heart.

Brush Teeth to Lower Gum Disease Risk

Brushing teeth may help lower heart disease risk by reducing the risk of gum disease. Importantly, regular brushing helps control levels of bacteria growing in the mouth. At the same time, brushing can help prevent gum disease from worsening and creating cracks in the gums where bacteria could enter the blood stream. Brushing is best done gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride-containing toothpaste.

In addition to brushing your teeth every day, you should visit our dentist regularly for check-ups and professional dental cleaning. These sessions will get your teeth even cleaner than you can get them with brushing at home. At a consultation with our dentist, you can learn more about the connection between gum disease and heart disease.